Starting and ending meetings on time is important. You also don’t want team members to be late for their next important activity. At its first meeting, a team is in the forming stage. A recommended sequence is introductions, objectives, and role assignments including leader, timelines, and contact information exchange. During or following this procedure, schedule a break that enables members to interact informally.

If members find that their social needs will not be met, dissatisfaction may occur quickly. Meetings should have the following three parts. Identify objectives. Begin by reviewing progress to date, the group’s objectives, and the purpose or objective for the specific meeting. Cover agenda items. Stick to the agenda and keep the discussion on track to ensure you achieve the objectives. Be sure to cover agenda items in priority order. The leader should summarize what took place during the meeting.